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Editorial Reviews

ea. vol: 30p. diags. map. bibliog. CIP. Bedrick, dist. by Harper. Apr. 1986. PSm $9.95. Gr 4-6 A young boy is the focus in each of these fictional accounts of family life in two ancient cultures. Kaha, the son of An Egyptian Craftsman, lives a comfortable life as a member of the hereditary scribe class. Apollodorus expects to follow his father's profession as A Greek Potter. The economic and social conditions of both families are emphasized in profusely illustrated two-page chapters. Historical accounts usually center on the extremes of royalty and slavery; it is refreshing to read about two middle-class families. Wooden dialogue gives additional historical background. Often the text is awkwardly phrased, and there are grammatical errors. The time lapse between the chapters is unclear. It is never explained how Kaha's father, originally a draftsman, is elevated to the hereditary position of scribe. The Egyptian festival is spelled both ``Opet'' and ``Ophet.'' Both introductions state that there will be ``suggestions for places to visit'' at the end of the book; however, none is included. While neither book will be useful for assignments, both are adequate as supplementary reading. Marguerite F. Raybould, Glendale Public Library, Calif.